Sacred Work: A Christian Woman's Guide to Leadership in the Marketplace

by Peggy Bodde

It’s possible for women to be strong Christians and confident leaders. There are more female professionals in the workforce than ever. But working women are also time-starved, stressed, and tired. And they often feel alone in their professional struggles. If you’re trying to do a million things at once and feel like you’re not doing any of them well, you’re not alone.

Mentor and longtime corporate leader Peggy Bodde views work as sacred and has invested her life in showing women how to thrive in the workplace.

In Sacred Work, Peggy provides an invaluable and practical resource that answers all your leadership challenges and questions. Women bring unique talents to the workplace, and they face specific challenges. Friend and mentor Peggy Bodde walks beside Christian women providing scriptural truth, personal examples, and practical teaching, equipping us to lead with wisdom and strength.

Genres: Leadership

224 pages, Paperback

Published April 2, 2024

Reviews

[Jason Woodard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to get an early release copy of the book to prepare for a podcast interview with the author! This is such a practical and helpful leadership book. I know the audience is women leaders in the workplace but 90% of the material is universal for all Christian Business leaders. Peggy’s writing style is similar to John Maxwells. Very concise and very practical. This is a quick read but an excellent resource as you grow in your leadership journey.

[Jessie Mattis · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let me say that I do not work in a business environment and this book was still super applicable to me. Everyone I know leads in some capacity, whether it be employees, volunteers, customers, friends, or children, and this book speaks to leadership on any level (with a focus on the workplace though, for sure).
Next, while this book is specifically written for women, I think men would gain a ton from reading it too. Not just practical leadership guidance and encouragement, but a more in-depth understanding of what their female counterparts experience in the workplace.
This book is packed full of God-centered wisdom and encouragement, and it feels like you're having coffee with a good friend, discussing real life leadership issues. The author has lots of real-life experience backing her in each and every God-inspired word, which makes this a powerful read.
Highly recommend!

[Janet Shaner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished chapter three that was about Managing Workplace Conflict. I’m not a manager but a lot of it is helpful and provides ideas for me to use when I’m in conflict with a co-worker and need to remember there are ways to handle situations. I will be using my highlight pens quite a bit when I get my paper copy of the book.

If you are an employee and not a manager you will still learn a lot about a healthy way to manage your work life.

[Desiree Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peggy Bodde is the friend and mentor you have always wanted! Sacred Work is more than just a guide for women in the workplace; it is a companion for women who work, serve in ministry, write, or serve in their families.

Peggy combines her years of experience, biblical perspective, and love for women and shares it all with us so we can put it into practice wherever we are living. This is a book you will want for yourselves and to pass on as a gift to others.

[Kamilla Magee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only worked in an office for a few years. It was an entirely new experience leaving a career of teaching to work in the law field. The office is of course dominated by men and we are currently going through a change in leadership and procedures. The first chapter I read? "Leading Through Change"! I've already used some of the suggested techniques with my team and it was amazing! They walked away from that meeting feeling more confident and willing to continue moving forward. Last night I read the chapter regarding Imposter Syndrome - I didn't even know I had succumbed to these thoughts. I've only read two chapters and I'm already recognizing and applying Peggy's down to earth strategies, helpful solutions all tied together with biblical guidance and encouragement in every chapter. I can't wait to see what a difference the rest of the book will make as I begin to recognize the Sacred Work God has called me to.

[Kimberly Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical but biblically-based tips and encouragement.
This book is an easy read and one a female leader will want to refer back to again and again. I like the stories illustrating her points and the sections with Bible stories giving a scriptural viewpoint. I have recommended it to my social media followers!

[Trisha Neumeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an exceptional resource for any Christian woman who is in leadership. The topics in this book have been so helpful to me to understand and navagate workplace issues in a godly way. There are definately not many resources like this available. I highly reccommend!

[Taliah Kendrick]

If you are not a leader in the workplace, don’t except yourself from reading this. Everyone can glean from the wisdom presented and apply what they learn in different circumstances. It is a concise book filled with practical tips, stories with different experiences, and biblical encouragement. Peggy’s heart to coach women is reflected throughout the pages of this book and it is one you want to have in your back pocket!

Thank you to the author and publisher for my complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Samantha Decker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is encouraging, practical, and captivating. It’s clear that Peggy’s heart is to glorify the Lord and encourage leaders to step forward confidently in their calling. It’s a book I will return to and reference over and over again. Highly recommend whether you consider yourself a leader or not!

[Yvette Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important book for Christians outside of ministry

Peggy Bodde delivers a well-written and well-reasoned manual to help Christians succeed in business, through their faith, not against it. Bodde structured the book for busy businessmen and women, with self-contained chapters and easy-to-digest information. It's the book Christians in business have needed all along!

[Leticia Togba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really speaks to the heart of Christian women in leadership positions outside of “ministry.” I also love how it tackles real issues and really big issues that one runs across on their leadership ascent. Thank you Peggy for reminding me that God can use me anywhere and that He truly does order our steps when we allow Him to.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars, rounded down.

This book is full of practical, helpful advice for Christian women in corporate leadership positions. As Peggy Bodde explains at the beginning, it is rare for these leaders to get the support that they need, since most Christian leadership books written for women focus on the nonprofit sector. Bodde encourages women in the corporate marketplace to believe that God cares about their jobs, and to know that they can glorify God and serve others within their vocational callings. Throughout this book, she shares encouragement and practical advice, and her writing is very succinct and clear. This book is just over 200 pages long, but it is very thorough, and is full of information, advice, and helpful action points.

Bodde shares stories and helpful perspectives based on her own and others' leadership experiences, and she includes clear reflection questions and action points for dealing with complex situations. She also delves into a Bible passage at the end of each chapter, exploring its implications for that chapter's theme. Overall, this book is highly readable and very practical, and in addition to covering age-old leadership topics, this book includes helpful perspectives on new challenges, such post-pandemic changes in the workplace. I especially liked the author's thoughtful, nuanced take about how to handle team dynamics when employees are working a mix of in-person, remote, and hybrid schedules.

Many chapters in this book focus on general leadership topics, such as dealing with conflict in the workplace, leading through crisis and change, dealing with disagreements with your boss, addressing performance issues among the people you supervise, and building a great work culture. Other chapters are more directly tailored to women, as Bodde writes about leading in a male-dominated industry and overcoming gendered socialization to promote yourself well and become a bold negotiator. The one thing that I found surprising and disappointing is that even though Bodde writes about confronting casual sexism in the workplace, she does not address the topic of sexual harassment. Of course, she isn't in the position to give legal counsel, and HR policies will differ, but I wish that she had shared general advice for how leaders can navigate this complicated issue for themselves or on someone else's behalf.

This is a thoughtful, practical book that is full of wisdom for Christian women in corporate leadership positions. It can also be encouraging and helpful for women who aren't in management, but who want to better understand workplace challenges and better advocate for themselves with their leaders. I would also recommend this book to men who want to better understand the challenges that their female colleagues face, or who simply want to benefit from the book's practical, biblical advice for a variety of circumstances. Even though the author wrote this book specifically for women, so much of the advice is generally applicable that I would recommend this to anyone looking for a solid, up-to-date Christian resource about navigating leadership challenges at work.

I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the format, allowing me to pick and choose chapters that seem helpful in the moment, and skip those that don't apply now but keep for later - like a "pocket mentor" as the author puts it. Ms. Bodde's style is so easy to read, just the right amount of good examples and then 1,2,3 tips for that particular chapter. Such as "9 practical steps to decision making". Regretfully, I didn't have this book while I was still in the workforce. It definitely would have made a big difference in my approach to others. Still, reading it now from a "relationship" viewpoint I discovered many gems that I can apply to my everyday life, even my marriage! Ms. Bodde includes lots of success stories, anecdotes and great examples describing how we might "get it right" in tough situations and how not to do it. At the same time she does not shy away from sharing some of her own failures. It was somehow affirming to read: "I was running for a finish line I had created, one that was completely off course. God blessed me and I had dishonored that blessing." Who can't relate to THAT? So if you are looking for inspiration at work or just in your everyday life, tips for making things so much easier by staying in harmony with your Christian values and God's word, you won't be disappointed with this book.

[Darci Steiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the growing number of women in leadership positions in the workforce comes the need for books that address the issues women face while working, leading, and balancing work and home life and how to manage all these things humbly and spiritually. Peggy Bodde has lived, loved, fallen, gotten back up, learned, taught, and listened in the workplace. Ms. Bodde's work in leading others while they lead is invaluable because of how she leads—with humility, integrity, strength, and a sacredness that comes from her relationship with God. My favorite chapter is Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry. I love it because she discusses how women are different from men and how their strengths complement one another. She quotes, "God designed men and women differently, but He values us equally. In the Bible, we read about women leading in spaces where they're in the minority...Helping women succeed doesn't mean you don't want men to succeed. It means you want everyone to succeed, and you'll do what it takes to make that happen." Great women leaders recognize strengths in each individual and build creative collaboration regardless of gender. I love Sacred Work and am a more aware, productive, and sensitive leader for having read it. A must for any business leader, male or female.

[Jane Doerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly wish I had Peggy's book when I started my career in my early twenties. Her insights are a goldmine of wisdom, particularly for women facing the myriad challenges of the workplace. One chapter that struck a chord with me was her exploration of remote work, which directly relates to my current workplace setting. Peggy not only provides strategic methods for fostering team unity and collaboration across different locations but also offers practical advice that any woman can put into action in her professional journey.

Peggy's unique blend of Biblical principles and actionable guidance makes this book stand out. Her genuine desire to empower women is evident in her writing and was further highlighted during our pre-launch podcast interview. She genuinely cares about women's success, not only in their careers but also in their spiritual growth, especially for those looking to integrate their faith into their work environments.

This book is an invaluable resource that I will turn to time and time again. Peggy's heartfelt empathy and strategic insights make it essential reading for any woman navigating today's complex workplace landscape.

[Pie Lafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

As i read the first pages of this book, it is clear the author has not only a deep belief in God and Jesus but a knowing. The holy words of the bible translucently support her teaching.
The imposter syndrome struck a strong cord with my being and my soul. Peggy gives a clear definition of imposter syndrome and means to overcome the insecurities women feel in the marketplace. This showed me that i was not alone in feelings of inadequacy . Even though i ran my own successful business for decades, feelings of being an imposter crept in. Thank you, Peggy, for
helping me and others understand the reasons why women ,christian women, and all women of faith experience doubts about their leadership talents.
This book is an excellent guide to enable women to become effective leaders in the marketplace and in their lives. i am looking forward to reading the second half of this important book.
Pie Lafferty

[Catherine J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides great encouragement and practical tools for women to overcome the obstacles we often face while honoring God in the process. Peggy powerfully shares her struggles and insights along with the breakthroughs she has experienced as God has shown her that He is with her in all of life. She helps women see that work is a significant part of what God calls each of us to. Peggy helps us see through the lies that too many of us have brought into and shift to seeing the sacredness of work. I love that she not only shares her own experiences and learnings, but weaves in the experiences and wisdom God has given other women. In doing so, she provides a rich tapestry of inspiration and tools to equip you so you, too, can celebrate the sacredness of your work and be all God created you to be with confidence.

[Chavonne Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sacred Work: A Christian Woman’s Guide to Leadership in the Marketplace is a transformative tool that speaks directly to hearts of women leaders. Author Peggy Bodde skillfully blends biblical wisdom with practical insights, guiding readers through the complex landscape of leadership challenges in the marketplace. From navigating societal pressures to embracing one’s own unique calling from God, Bodde empowers women to lead with confidence, authenticity, and integrity. This book is not just a resource; it is a roadmap for women seeking to thrive not only professionally but spiritually. I highly recommend “Sacred Work” not only for marketplace professionals but also for inclusion in college courses. After you read this book, your life will never be the same, you will know how to “Be Fearless” in the marketplace.

[Marianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully written book giving perfect tools on how to be successful in the workplace (or in life!) while still keeping strong to our Christian values. I worked in the Finance industry and as a female leader in a mainly male industry, I wld have loved having Peggy Bodde's book as my mentor. Even though I am now retired, I can use her guidance in my day to day life via volunteering in the community, meetings and friendships. My favorite part of each chapter is at the end in the 'Sacred Work' section. In this section she applies scripture & biblical leadership principles while relating them to our current day situations. She reminds us that in this life God is present with us and His plans for us our good! I also feel comforted by her prayers. I highly recommend this book!!

[Leslie McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never really thought of myself as a leader, though I've been helping run a tech manufacturing company for many years. I felt understood and encouraged by Peggy's struggles to infuse joy, purpose, compassion, and courage into her role as a leader in the marketplace. Peggy tells poignant and relatable personal stories, while laying out practical, do-able tips for maintaining a Christ-like attitude on the job, even when we feel our voices aren't appreciated and don't matter. They do, she assures us. They matter to God, to ourselves, and to the men and women we are uniquely positioned to influence. Let Peggy mentor and elevate you through the pages of Sacred Work, then give a copy to a girlfriend or two. You'll be so glad you did.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Peggy Bodde cares deeply for women and their success, and particularly Christian women leaders in the workplace. In Sacred Work, Peggy presents challenges that many women face in their places of work and provides personal examples, helpful steps, and applicable, meaningful scripture—all valuable tools to work through the various challenges. Reading this book is like having a personal mentor by your side, which is priceless in today’s world. I love that the very first chapter is about imposter syndrome, something that I have faced myself in my career. Peggy delves straight to the heart of the matter, and this sets a tone to the book that makes me want to read more and learn more from Peggy’s invaluable knowledge.

[Amy Lively · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bodde erases the line we've drawn between sacred and secular so we can walk worthy of our Christian calling at work. Chapter topics are taken straight from a typical leader's daily calendar: navigating change, handling conflict, making hard decisions, disagreements with your boss, addressing performance, and so much more. This book is truly a GUIDE with Christlike strategies and "how to" tactics any woman can adapt and adopt. MEN, read this too! You'll learn how to support your female coworkers in the special challenges they face and see how uniquely feminine perspectives benefit everyone the marketplace. Finally, someone has come along who has "been there, done that" to show women leaders their value, worth, and purpose.

[Erica Dvorak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through relatable stories and actionable advice, author Peggy Bodde guides readers on a journey of empowerment to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their professional goals while recognizing the importance of personal integrity and spiritual growth alongside professional success. Sacred Work reminds readers that their careers are not just about climbing the corporate ladder but fulfilling their calling and higher purpose. Whether facing failure, disagreement with superiors, or the sting of being passed over for a promotion, Bodde provides a roadmap for resilience and growth. Each chapter is filled with nuggets of wisdom, practical strategies, and biblical truths that inspire and empower women to lead with confidence and conviction.

[Kim Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gift for every Christian woman leading in the workplace. Sacred Work is my new go-to companion for handling everyday and complex situations.

Peggy Bodde provides a roadmap with practical ways to address various marketplace issues, such as managing conflict, leading remote teams, handling being passed over for a promotion, and leading in male-dominated industries. Sacred Work covers many topics in a useful way that is easy to reference. The next time you need advice for a work situation, grab a copy of this book and flip to the applicable chapter.

Sacred Work is a must-have addition to your library.

[Sibyl Steverson Slade · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, I felt seen and heard. As a minority female leader/professional, I understand the perpetual stress that ensues from fighting to be valued in the marketplace and God forbid you bring your Christian values with you. Sacred Work gives the reader permission to be true to your values, your Christian identity, and your purpose as a professional leader. And in those moments when you're vulnerable or second guessing yourself, the book provides a blue print for you to continue the journey as your best self.

[Faith Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I knew you when I was in the corporate world. But after reading this book it applies to more than just work environments. It can be used in relationships, parenting, church leadership, becoming an author, even in my guest speaking endeavors and I'm sure so many more areas I'm not even thinking of right now! Wow! Really good! Thank you for taking the time to not only listen to God, but to sit down and compile all your experience and knowledge into this easy to read and understand masterpiece. Beautifully done, Peggy!

[Kristi Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hesitant about reading the book because I do not hold a marketplace leadership role. However, once I began reading I realized that the book translates to all other areas of leadership not just in the marketplace. There are great nuggets of truth that can be applied to marriage, parenting and church leadership. The author's transparency of including her own experiences makes her relatable. The book was a great reminder of Colossians 3:23-24, Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord and not for man.

[Gabriela Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gem that is filled with so much wisdom. As a woman of faith who has always been in secular spheres and working in a field that is traditionally masculine, I have often felt out of place with my peers. Peggy is so relatable, and dives into godly leadership and affirming that God has called us to where He has placed us. I have never felt more seen. Women of faith need more books like these. This book is faith- and purpose-affirming.

I love her affirmation: “I worked hard to get here. I belong here. God created me to do this work in this place.”

[Karen West · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great guide for any leader! I love the inspiration weaved throughout each chapter. Peggy provides guidance and direction for situations we face each day in our workplace based on real-life experiences. The format of the book allows me to pick and choose whatever chapter best fits my given need. This book is an excellent guide to help women become better leaders not only at work but in their lives.

[Jessica Hanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book I've spent my life waiting to read.

Peggy's real-life approach to real-life problems are a godsend in the pink fluff culture of women's non-fiction. She goes to the hard topics and gives you useful tools and strategies.

Learning that "conflict can be a catalyst for change" has transformed my life, and I'm immensely grateful for her hard-learned wisdom.

Best of all, she loves Jesus and she loves people.

I'd give this book six stars if I could!